The Dallas Cowboys have been linked to a potential trade for a three-time All-Pro defensive star in an effort to fix one of their biggest weaknesses through the first five games of the 2024 NFL season.
The Cowboys pulled off a dramatic 20-17 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday night, with Dak Prescott throwing a game-winning touchdown to Jalen Tolbert with just 20 seconds left in regulation. Despite Prescott’s two interceptions and a fumble, he managed to throw for 352 yards, securing a last-second victory for Dallas.
However, struggles in the Cowboys’ secondary have prompted discussions of a potential trade to shore up the defense. According to Bleacher Report’s NFL scouting department, Dallas should consider trading for Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker, a three-time All-Pro.
Budda Baker is a three-time All-Pro: First-team in 2017 and 2020, and Second-team in 2021.
Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
“The Cowboys have had sub-par safety play so far this season, as both Donovan Wilson and Malik Hooker posted grades from Pro Football Focus below 60 through the first four weeks of the campaign,” the article stated.
“The 28-year-old looms as a lucrative trade chip because A) he wanted a new contract last offseason before settling for a raise and B) he’s one of the most talented players at any position slated to reach the open market in 2025.”
In April 2023, Baker formally requested a trade, frustrated with his current contract and seeking either a trade or a new deal that would make him the highest-paid safety in the league.
Although the Cardinals granted him a raise for the 2023 season, his long-term future with Arizona remains uncertain.
Baker, the No. 36 overall pick in the 2017 NFL draft, recorded 111 tackles just two seasons ago in 2022, along with one forced fumble, two interceptions and seven pass deflections.
While adding Baker would be a huge boost for Dallas, it wouldn’t come without a significant cost.
“The Cardinals should expect to receive calls on Baker. And if they’re looking to add premium draft capital, a trade involving him would provide it,” B/R added.
